Norman Blake

First aired on WUTC 6/8/24

Norman Blake is a distinguished American guitarist and songwriter renowned for his profound influence on the bluegrass, folk, and country music scenes. Born on March 10, 1938, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Blake's career spans over six decades, showcasing his exceptional skills on various stringed instruments, including guitar, mandolin, dobro,  and fiddle. He is celebrated for his intricate fingerpicking style and authentic sound that bridges traditional and contemporary music.

Blake has earned numerous accolades throughout his illustrious career. He received multiple Grammy nominations and, along with his wife Nancy Blake, won a Grammy for his contribution to the "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" soundtrack, which garnered widespread acclaim and introduced Americana music to a broader audience.

Norman Blake's enduring legacy is marked by his dedication to preserving traditional music while simultaneously pushing its boundaries, making him a revered figure in the world of acoustic music.

Norman Blake Tracklist:
Church Street Blues
Ginseng Sullivan
Green Light on the Southern
Man of Constant Sorrow
You are My Sunshine
Slow Train Through Georgia

Other Artists Tracklist:
Bill Monroe – "My Last Days on Earth"
The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band – "The Precious Jewel"
The Blue Sky Boys – "The Lightning Express"
Johnny Cash – "Bad News"
Johnny Cash – "The Long Black Veil"

The Songbirds Radio Hour is made possible through grants from the Tennessee Arts Commission and the Riverview Foundation.